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Music: Snow Patrol

By 20 January 2012 No Comments

Bands like Snow Patrol are in an awkward position. They have that one single we all liked whether we admit it or not, and nobody really wants anything more from them. Snow Patrol is thus left to play “Chasing Cars” at high school reunions to satisfy prom night nostalgia.

The group’s new album, Fallen Empires, challenges the “Chasing Cars” legacy. While Snow Patrol has previously served guitar-driven pop rock reminiscent of Coldplay’s softer side (yes, the softer side of Coldplay), this album introduces a new dance/electronic element. It’s not a complete change—power ballads like “New York” and “Berlin” remain—but still, Fallen Empires demonstrates an obvious effort by Snow Patrol to evolve.

Unfortunately, not many people want that evolution. Bands of this ilk are at their best when they stay within their comfort zone, playing the music they and their fans know and like. This is plainly apparent on Snow Patrol’s new album, which feels like a forced attempt to capitalize on the latest dance trend rather than an organic musical development. Besides, even if Fallen Empires’ experiments did pay off, no one would actually care. Ask Coldplay about Mylo Xyloto. Anyway, if you still listen to Snow Patrol, you probably just want another “Chasing Cars.” You won’t find it here.

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